Pin A comforting blend of creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with smoky barbecue chicken for the ultimate family-friendly casserole.
I remember making this dish for the first time during a busy weeknight and it quickly became a requested favorite at our dinner table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 700 ml (3 cups) whole milk, 200 g (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese (shredded), 80 g (3/4 cup) mozzarella cheese (shredded), 60 g (1/2 cup) Parmesan cheese (grated), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional), 1/4 tsp ground mustard (optional)
- BBQ Chicken: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 150 ml (2/3 cup) barbecue sauce
- Topping: 50 g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter, 30 g (1/4 cup) cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 22x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make BBQ chicken:
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest 5 minutes, then shred with two forks. Toss shredded chicken with barbecue sauce and set aside.
- Prepare cheese sauce:
- Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Finish cheese sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard until smooth and cheese is melted.
- Combine macaroni and sauce:
- Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into prepared baking dish. Top evenly with BBQ chicken.
- Make topping:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over top. Add extra cheddar.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin This casserole is my go-to on busy evenings when everyone gathers a little early in the kitchen, eager for something warm and satisfying.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish (9x13-inch), whisk, mixing bowls
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (dairy), Wheat (gluten). May contain: Eggs (if using certain pasta), soy (if present in BBQ sauce or cheese). Always read product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 610, Total Fat: 27 g, Carbohydrates: 59 g, Protein: 36 g
Pin Enjoy your classic mac & cheese with a bold barbecue chicken twist. It is sure to please everyone at the table!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken work well—just toss with barbecue sauce and layer as directed.
- → Which cheeses give best flavor?
Sharp cheddar offers classic taste, while mozzarella adds creaminess and Parmesan provides depth.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Add spicy barbecue sauce, chopped jalapeños, or extra smoked paprika for more heat.
- → Is it possible to make ahead?
Yes, assemble up to baking step, cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for freshest results.
- → What sides pair well?
A crisp green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables balance the rich, cheesy flavors.